eSpecially Ben

 Last year when we were just observers of Sled Hockey , I wrote about how amazing these athletes were - both in skill and their ability to overcome whatever physical challenges faced them. I brought Ryan along this year and he was astounded by what he saw. He went into the experience with doubts about the sport and quality of the athletes, but after a few minutes realized that his misconceptions were based on bad assumptions. I'd say he did not believe me when I came back last year so excited!  Ben had the opportunity this year to get on one of the sleds and slide around with the Big Dogs. Ben is pictured here with one of the US Paralympic Sled Hockey  team members. Ryan made sure this photo happened. Next year, he plans to stage a photo with the whole team surrounding Ben in the goal. Ben spent a lot of time trying to get the helmet off and his fingers were cold after a few tours around the ice. If he hated it, he would have let us know - so I will assume he enjoy

Just because Logan turned down the opportunity to be in our church's Christmas Eve Pageant depicting the Story of Jesus, didn't mean that Ben could not be a part of it. Ben was assigned the role of one of the three Wise Men. The beautiful robe Ben was supposed to wear was off him in less than ten seconds. The crown was a lost cause until we decided to hang it from his walker. We politely asked the people in charge if it was going to be okay if Ben did not wear the costume. They looked at us like we were crazy - of course it did not matter. The show must go on with Ben. With two escorts, Ben made it down the aisle, up the alter and sat calmly for the pastor's reading of Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas . Somehow he even wore the crown for this photo (photo below - left corner, sitting with Ryan.) I was a proud mom. Not just of my son, but of my husband who stayed in the limelight with Ben and mostly of my church for its comfortable nature and inclusi

Every year for Christmas, family friends Tom and Lutu Coffey give us a thoughtful and generous gift. When I collected pitchers to fill my kitchen shelves, they sent me beautiful ones designed by local artists. We still snuggle under the large fleece blanket they sent years ago. We looked forward to our special gift this year. We could not have prepared for this year's masterpiece. We happened to be in town when Tom and Lutu were visiting their family in Charlotte. When they stopped by to drop off our gift, we let them know how we always appreciate their creative presents. We said this without knowing what was in the large bag they brought. Ryan did the honors. There were three framed photographs of orchids. Beautiful. Gorgeous. All three photographs were of award winning plants. The photographs were the official ones from the judged event. Each framed piece had an official certificate attached to the back. The first one was named for Ben. The second was named for Logan.

The Evolution of the Christmas Card Photo*: Merry Christmas from our family to yours!   *  I borrowed this idea from my creative friend Kati. We all know how much goes on behind the scenes of the holiday photo. Sometimes it's fun to see the discarded photos too.

Scoop of Sunshine  collects all types of quotes, articles and videos meant to make you smile, laugh, think and perhaps act. In the midst of harried shopping, crazy baking and family visiting, it is a good reminder to reflect on the bigger picture during this time of the year.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are the big draw at Mecklenburg Shriners Club Holiday Party each year. There's no delayed gratification between telling Santa what you want and December 25. After you get your photo taken with Santa, you walk off the stage and choose your present right then and there. This year, Ben ('s parents) chose a Harley Davidson jacket - photo soon to be released. If you are impressed with Ben's patience sitting on Santa's lap...about three seconds after the photo was shot, Ben had Santa's belt undone and off. He's that good. But as you can see, this Santa and all those involved in this wonderful organization have a good sense of humor and take it all in stride. Need more information about the organization: Shining at Shriners Shriners Hospital Shriners International

It is easy for us to get caught up in our own issues, problems and complaints - I am just as guilty as the next person. If we can step outside ourselves once in awhile, we can see everything in its true perspective. Sometimes it takes a small gesture and sometimes a whack on the head. Lucky for me, this time I was given a hand. Ben received this ornament and letter this week. A lot of emotion washed over me as I read the beautiful letter. I know it is tiny print, but please read it. If you want more information, read their website: Wings of Hope , an orphanage for children with disabilities.